Materials for Copper Base Powder Metallurgy (PM) Structural Parts

B823-15: Standard Specification for Materials for Copper Base Powder Metallurgy (PM) Structural Parts

For engineers and designers working with copper-based alloys in structural applications, ensuring material integrity and performance is paramount. ASTM B823-15 provides an essential framework for specifying and procuring high-quality copper-based powder metallurgy (PM) materials, offering a comprehensive guide to chemical composition, mechanical properties, and critical performance characteristics for a wide range of industrial components.

What is B823-15?

ASTM B823-15 is an industry-leading standard that establishes specifications for copper-based powder metallurgy materials intended for structural applications. Originating from ASTM Committee B09 on Metal Powders and Metal Powder Products, its primary purpose is to define a standardized classification system, chemical composition limits, and minimum mechanical properties, particularly tensile yield strength, to ensure consistent material quality and performance.

Scope & Purpose

This comprehensive standard governs the materials used in the production of copper-based powder metallurgy structural parts, including those designed for applications demanding high electrical conductivity. It outlines requirements for chemical composition, density, and minimum tensile yield strength through a standardized material designation code. While B823-15 focuses on the material specifications for these PM parts, it does not dictate manufacturing processes beyond the basic principles of compacting and sintering, nor does it cover the design of the final parts themselves.

Who Must Comply?

• • Primary audience: Materials Engineers, Metallurgists, Manufacturing Engineers, Product Designers, and Quality Control Inspectors involved in the specification, production, or procurement of copper-based PM structural parts.
• • Industries affected: Powder Metallurgy Manufacturing, Metal Fabrication, Automotive Manufacturing, Electrical Component Manufacturing, General Manufacturing, and any industry utilizing custom-engineered copper alloy components.
• • Compliance nature: Compliance is typically voluntary, driven by contractual agreements and the need to ensure material quality and interoperability. However, for critical applications, it is highly recommended.
• • Enforcement: Compliance is generally verified through material certifications, in-house testing, and third-party inspections as specified in purchase orders and design specifications.

Key Requirements Overview

Professionals utilizing ASTM B823-15 must ensure:

• • Materials conform to the specified chemical composition ranges for various copper-based alloys, as detailed in the standard's tables.
• • A standardized material designation code is employed for ordering and communication, which includes alloy type and minimum yield strength.
• • Minimum tensile yield strength requirements are met for the designated material grades, verified through standardized testing methods.
• • For high electrical conductivity applications, specific density limits are adhered to, with provisions for handling density variations within a part.
• • When required, appropriate tests for oil content, porosity, and electrical conductivity are performed to ensure functional performance.

Related Standards & References

ASTM B823-15 integrates seamlessly with other industry-recognized standards to provide a complete framework for PM components. Complementary standards include:

• • ASTM B243: Provides essential terminology for powder metallurgy, ensuring a common understanding of terms used within B823-15.
• • ASTM E8: Outlines the standard methods for tension testing of metallic materials, which is critical for verifying the tensile yield strength requirements specified in B823-15